Weinstein passes on movie pitch from Obama

Hollywood studio head Harvey Weinstein has revealed US president Barack Obama recently sent him a film idea which he knocked back.

"The president sent me a book the other day and said 'Why don't you make this into a movie?' ... It was a spy novel," Weinstein revealed.

"I sent him an email back saying he was the most over qualified book scout I've ever had."

As if getting a movie pitch from the president wasn't enough, Weinstein was on Wednesday made a member of the French Legion of Honour.

In a ceremony held in Paris, French president Nicolas Sarkozy paid tribute to the 59-year-old producer of The Artist for his contribution to cinema.

"I am honoured and humbled by this recognition from President Sarkozy and the people of France," Weinstein said in a statement.

"All my life, I have loved and been inspired by French cinema, and as a studio head it has been my pride and joy to have the ability to bring movies to audiences around the world.

"I am still the young boy who walked to the cinema in Flushing, New York to see films by the greats - Lelouch, Godard, Renoir and my personal favourite, François Truffaut. They inspired me and led me to the place I am in today.

"I hope to continue my friendship with France and its filmmakers for many years to come."